10768801

Electronic Device and Method for Displaying Contents

PublishedSeptember 8, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
16 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. An electronic device, comprising: a display configured to: display contents in which a second area for displaying a second content is nested in a first area for displaying a first content; and display contents in which a third area for displaying a third content is nested in the first area for displaying the first content, and a processor including a focus setting module and a scrolling module, the focus setting module configured to: set, in accordance with a predetermined gesture operation, a focus on the first content in the first area or the second content in the second area; and set a focus on the first content, the second content, or the third content according to the predetermined gesture operation, and the scrolling module configured to: in response to a predetermined scrolling operation performed in a scrolling operation target area, to scroll the first content in the first area if the focus is set on the first content or the second content in the second area if the focus is set on the second content, regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area where the predetermined scrolling operation is performed is the first area or the second area; and scroll the first content, the second content, or the third content on which the focus is set according to the predetermined scrolling operation regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area is the first area, the second area, or the third area, wherein when the gesture operation indicates that the focus is to be set on the second area, and the second content is displayed beyond a display range, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus to the third area.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with displays that show nested content areas, addressing the challenge of managing focus and scrolling in multi-layered interfaces. The device includes a display that presents a first content area with nested second and third content areas. A processor with focus and scrolling modules controls interaction. The focus setting module adjusts focus between the first, second, or third content areas based on a predetermined gesture, allowing users to navigate between layers. If the gesture targets the second area but its content is outside the display range, focus automatically shifts to the third area. The scrolling module responds to scrolling operations by adjusting the content where focus is set, regardless of the area where the scroll gesture occurs. For example, scrolling while focused on the second area will scroll its content, even if the gesture is performed in the first area. This system simplifies navigation in complex, nested interfaces by decoupling focus and scrolling operations from the physical location of the gesture, ensuring intuitive control over layered content.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The electronic device according to claim 1 , further comprising a touch panel, wherein the focus setting module is configured to detect the gesture operation based on an input operation on the touch panel.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to electronic devices with enhanced user interaction capabilities, particularly focusing on gesture-based focus setting for improved content navigation. The device includes a display for presenting content and a focus setting module that adjusts the focus position of the displayed content in response to user gestures. The focus setting module detects gesture operations, such as swiping or tapping, to dynamically adjust the focus position, allowing users to navigate through content more efficiently. In an advanced configuration, the device further includes a touch panel, enabling the focus setting module to detect gesture operations based on touch inputs. This integration allows users to interact directly with the touch panel to control focus positioning, enhancing usability and responsiveness. The system may also include a focus position storage module to retain focus positions for different content items, ensuring consistent navigation experiences. The invention addresses the need for intuitive and precise content navigation in electronic devices, particularly in scenarios where traditional input methods are cumbersome or inefficient.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The electronic device according to claim 2 , wherein when the gesture operation on the second area for displaying the second content on which the focus is set is detected, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content; when the gesture operation on the first area for displaying the first content on which the focus is not set is detected, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content; and when the gesture operation on the second area for displaying the second content on which the focus is not set is detected, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to electronic devices with touch-sensitive displays that manage focus between multiple content areas. The problem addressed is the need for intuitive and efficient focus switching between different content regions on a touchscreen, particularly when multiple content areas are displayed simultaneously. The device includes a focus setting module that dynamically adjusts focus based on gesture operations detected in specific display areas. When a gesture is detected on a second content area that currently has focus, the focus is shifted to a first content area. Conversely, if a gesture is detected on the first content area (regardless of whether it has focus), the focus is set to that area. Similarly, a gesture on the second content area without focus will set focus to that area. This system ensures that focus transitions are context-aware, improving user interaction by reducing unnecessary focus shifts and enhancing navigation efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in devices where multiple content regions are displayed simultaneously, such as split-screen applications or multitasking interfaces.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The electronic device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a sensor configured to detect a change in a posture of a main body of the device, wherein the focus setting module is configured to detect the gesture operation based on a change in the posture of the main body of the device by the sensor.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with gesture-based focus control, addressing the challenge of intuitive and hands-free interaction in devices where traditional input methods are impractical. The device includes a focus setting module that adjusts focus settings (e.g., for a camera or display) based on detected gesture operations. The device further incorporates a sensor that detects changes in the posture of the main body, enabling the focus setting module to interpret these posture changes as gesture operations. For example, tilting or rotating the device may trigger focus adjustments, allowing users to control the device without direct physical interaction. The sensor continuously monitors the device's orientation or movement, translating these changes into commands for the focus setting module. This approach enhances usability in scenarios where manual input is difficult, such as during photography or when the device is mounted in a fixed position. The system may also include additional sensors or processing logic to refine gesture detection accuracy, ensuring reliable operation in various environments. The invention improves user experience by providing a seamless, gesture-driven method for adjusting focus settings in electronic devices.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The electronic device according to claim 4 , wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the second content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content if the gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the first content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content if the gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with user interfaces that support focus switching between multiple content items using gesture operations. The problem addressed is the need for an intuitive and efficient way to navigate between different content items displayed on a device, particularly when the device has limited input methods or when users prefer gesture-based interactions. The electronic device includes a display for presenting at least two content items, a sensor for detecting gesture operations, and a focus setting module. The focus setting module controls which content item is currently selected or highlighted. When the focus is on a second content item, detecting a specific gesture operation causes the focus to shift to a first content item. Conversely, when the focus is on the first content item, the same gesture operation shifts the focus to the second content item. This bidirectional switching allows users to toggle focus between the two content items using a consistent gesture, improving navigation efficiency. The gesture operation may involve movements such as swiping, tapping, or other predefined motions detected by the sensor. The system ensures that the focus alternates between the two content items in response to the same gesture, reducing the need for complex or multiple input commands. This approach is particularly useful in devices with touchscreens, remote controls, or other limited input interfaces, where simplifying navigation enhances user experience.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The electronic device according to claim 4 , wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the second content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content when a first gesture operation is detected, and the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content when a second gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the first content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content when the second gesture operation is detected, and the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content when the first gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to electronic devices with user interfaces that display multiple content items, such as first and second content, and methods for navigating between them using gesture-based focus control. The problem addressed is improving user interaction efficiency when switching focus between different content areas on a device screen, particularly in scenarios where users need to toggle between two primary content items. The device includes a focus setting module that dynamically adjusts focus based on detected gesture operations. When focus is on the second content, a first gesture operation (e.g., a swipe or tap) shifts focus to the first content, while a second gesture operation maintains focus on the second content. Conversely, when focus is on the first content, the second gesture operation moves focus to the second content, and the first gesture operation keeps focus on the first content. This bidirectional control allows users to toggle between content items with intuitive gestures, reducing the need for complex navigation commands. The system ensures seamless transitions by recognizing distinct gesture inputs to alternate focus states, enhancing usability in applications like split-screen interfaces, dual-pane displays, or multitasking environments. The invention aims to streamline user interaction by minimizing steps required to switch between content areas, improving responsiveness and reducing cognitive load.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. An electronic device, comprising: a display configured to: display contents in which a second area for displaying a second content is nested in a first area for displaying a first content; and display contents in which a third area for displaying a third content is nested in the second area for displaying the second content, and a processor including a focus setting module and a scrolling module, the focus setting module configured to: set, in accordance with a predetermined gesture operation, a focus on the first content in the first area or the second content in the second area; and set the focus on the first content, the second content, or the third content according to the predetermined gesture operation; and the scrolling module configured to: in response to a predetermined scrolling operation performed in a scrolling operation target area, scroll the first content in the first area if the focus is set on the first content or the second content in the second area if the focus is set on the second content, regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area where the predetermined scrolling operation is performed is the first area or the second area; and scroll the first content, the second content, or the third content on which the focus is set according to the predetermined scrolling operation regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area is the first area, the second area, or the third area, wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the first content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the third content when a first gesture operation is detected, and the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content when a second gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the third content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content when the second gesture operation is detected, and the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the third content when the first gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to an electronic device with a display that shows nested content areas, where a second content area is nested within a first content area, and a third content area is nested within the second content area. The device includes a processor with a focus setting module and a scrolling module. The focus setting module allows a user to set focus on any of the first, second, or third content areas using predetermined gesture operations. The scrolling module enables scrolling of the content in the focused area, regardless of where the scrolling operation is performed. For example, if focus is set on the second content area, scrolling operations will scroll the second content, even if the scrolling gesture is performed in the first or third areas. The focus can be toggled between the first and third content areas using first and second gesture operations, allowing seamless navigation between nested content layers. This system improves user interaction with deeply nested content structures by simplifying focus management and scrolling control.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. An electronic device, comprising: a display configured to: display contents in which a second area for displaying a second content is nested in a first area for displaying a first content; and display contents in which a third area for displaying a third content is nested in the second area for displaying the second content, and a processor including a focus setting module and a scrolling module, the focus setting module configured to: set, in accordance with a predetermined gesture operation, a focus on the first content in the first area or the second content in the second area; and set the focus on the first content, the second content, or the third content according to the predetermined gesture operation; and the scrolling module configured to: in response to a predetermined scrolling operation performed in a scrolling operation target area, scroll the first content in the first area if the focus is set on the first content or the second content in the second area if the focus is set on the second content, regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area where the predetermined scrolling operation is performed is the first area or the second area; and scroll the first content, the second content, or the third content on which the focus is set according to the predetermined scrolling operation regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area is the first area, the second area, or the third area, wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the first content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content when a first gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the second content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the third content when the first gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with multi-layered display areas for nested content and a focus-based scrolling mechanism. The problem addressed is the difficulty in navigating and scrolling through multiple layers of nested content on a display, where traditional scrolling methods may not intuitively correspond to the desired content layer. The device includes a display that shows nested content areas, where a second content area is nested within a first content area, and a third content area is nested within the second content area. A processor controls focus and scrolling operations. A focus setting module allows a user to set focus on any of the three content layers using a predetermined gesture operation. For example, a first gesture operation shifts focus from the first content to the second content, and another gesture shifts focus from the second to the third content. A scrolling module ensures that scrolling operations apply to the content layer currently in focus, regardless of where the scrolling gesture is performed. If focus is on the first content, scrolling affects the first content, even if the gesture is performed in the second or third area. Similarly, if focus is on the second content, scrolling affects the second content, regardless of the gesture's location. This allows intuitive navigation through nested content layers without requiring precise gesture placement. The system improves usability by decoupling the scrolling target from the gesture location, ensuring operations align with the user's intended focus.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The electronic device according to claim 8 , wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the third content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the second content when a second gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the second content, the focus setting module is configured to set the focus on the first content when the second gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with user interfaces that allow navigation between multiple content items using gesture operations. The problem addressed is improving the efficiency and intuitiveness of content navigation in devices where users interact with multiple content items, such as in media playback or document viewing applications. The device includes a display for presenting at least three content items: first, second, and third content. A focus setting module controls which content item is currently highlighted or selected. When the focus is on the third content, a second gesture operation (e.g., a swipe or tap) triggers the focus to shift to the second content. Conversely, when the focus is on the second content, the same second gesture operation moves the focus to the first content. This bidirectional navigation allows users to cycle through content items in a predictable and repeatable manner, enhancing usability. The system may also include additional modules for detecting user inputs and adjusting display states based on focus changes. The invention aims to streamline navigation in multi-content environments, reducing user effort and improving interaction speed.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The electronic device according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is configured to display the content which is focused to a specific color different from that of the content which is not focused.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to electronic devices with display interfaces, particularly addressing the challenge of improving user focus and readability in digital content. The device includes a processor that controls the display of content, where the processor is configured to highlight or emphasize a specific portion of the content by rendering it in a distinct color that differs from the color of the non-focused content. This visual differentiation helps users quickly identify and concentrate on the relevant information, enhancing usability and reducing cognitive load. The processor may also adjust other visual attributes, such as brightness or contrast, to further distinguish the focused content. The invention is particularly useful in applications where users need to navigate or interact with large amounts of text or data, such as in document editing, web browsing, or multimedia playback. By dynamically altering the color of the focused content, the device ensures that users can easily track their position and maintain context, improving overall efficiency and reducing errors. The technology is applicable to smartphones, tablets, computers, and other display-equipped devices.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. A method for displaying contents, including: displaying contents in which a second area for displaying a second content is nested in a first area for displaying a first content; display contents in which a third area for displaying a third content is nested in the first area for displaying the first content; setting a focus on the first content in the first area or the second content in the second area according to a predetermined gesture operation; setting a focus on the first content, the second content, or the third content according to the predetermined gesture operation; scrolling, in response to a predetermined scrolling operation performed in a scrolling operation target area, the first content in the first area if the focus is set on the first content or the second content in the second area if the focus is set on the second content regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area where the predetermined scrolling operation is performed is the first area or the second area; scrolling the first content, the second content, or the third content on which the focus is set according to the predetermined scrolling operation regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area is the first area, the second area, or the third area; and setting the focus to the third area, when the gesture operation indicates that the focus is to be set on the second area, and the second content is displayed beyond a display range.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for displaying nested content areas on a display screen, addressing the challenge of managing focus and scrolling operations in multi-layered content displays. The method involves displaying a first content area that contains nested second and third content areas. Each nested area displays its own distinct content. A focus mechanism allows a user to select which content area (first, second, or third) should receive input commands, such as scrolling, through predetermined gesture operations. When a scrolling operation is performed, the content within the focused area is scrolled, regardless of which physical area the scrolling gesture is performed in. For example, if the second content area is focused, scrolling gestures in either the first or second area will scroll the second content. If the second content is scrolled beyond the visible display range, the focus automatically shifts to the third content area. This method ensures intuitive navigation and interaction with nested content structures, improving user experience in multi-layered display environments.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising detecting the gesture operation based on an input operation of a touch panel.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The method according to claim 12 , wherein when the gesture operation on the second area for displaying the second content on which the focus is set is detected, setting the focus on the first content; when the gesture operation on the first area for displaying the first content on which the focus is not set is detected, setting the focus on the first content; and when the gesture operation on the second area for displaying the second content on which the focus is not set is detected, setting the focus on the second content.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a method for managing focus in a user interface with multiple content areas. The problem addressed is the need for an intuitive and efficient way to switch focus between different content regions in a display, particularly in environments where multiple content areas are simultaneously visible. The method involves detecting gesture operations on specific areas of the display and dynamically adjusting focus based on the detected gestures and the current focus state. The method operates in a system where a display shows at least two content areas: a first area displaying first content and a second area displaying second content. The focus can be set on either the first or second content. When a gesture operation is detected on the second area while the focus is already set on the second content, the focus is shifted to the first content. Similarly, if a gesture operation is detected on the first area while the focus is not set on the first content, the focus is set to the first content. Conversely, if a gesture operation is detected on the second area while the focus is not set on the second content, the focus is set to the second content. This approach ensures that focus switching is context-aware, reducing user confusion and improving interaction efficiency. The method is particularly useful in applications where rapid focus switching between content areas is required, such as in multimedia interfaces or multi-tasking environments.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising detecting the gesture operation based on a detected change in a posture of a main body of an electronic device.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to gesture-based control systems for electronic devices, particularly for detecting and interpreting user gestures to control device functions. The problem addressed is the need for intuitive, hands-free interaction with electronic devices, especially in scenarios where traditional input methods (e.g., touchscreens or buttons) are impractical or unavailable. The method involves detecting a user's gesture operation by analyzing changes in the posture of the electronic device's main body. This is achieved through sensors embedded in the device, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, or other motion-tracking components, which monitor spatial orientation and movement. The system processes these sensor inputs to identify specific gestures, such as tilting, rotating, or shaking the device, and translates them into corresponding commands. For example, tilting the device in a particular direction may navigate a user interface, while shaking may trigger a reset function. The method may also include filtering sensor data to reduce noise and improve gesture recognition accuracy. Additionally, the system may calibrate sensor baselines to account for environmental factors or device orientation changes. The detected gestures are then mapped to predefined actions, enabling seamless control of device operations without direct physical contact. This approach enhances usability in scenarios like wearable devices, industrial equipment, or medical applications where touch-based inputs are inconvenient or unsafe. The invention aims to provide a reliable, responsive gesture recognition system that adapts to varying user behaviors and environmental conditions.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The method according to claim 14 , wherein in a state in which the focus is set on the second content, setting the focus on the first content if the gesture operation is detected, and in a state in which the focus is set on the first content, setting the focus on the second content if the gesture operation is detected.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to user interface navigation systems, specifically for switching focus between multiple content items using gesture operations. The problem addressed is the need for an intuitive and efficient way to toggle focus between different content elements, such as in multimedia applications or interactive displays, without requiring multiple or complex inputs. The method involves detecting a gesture operation, such as a swipe or tap, to alternate focus between a first content item and a second content item. When focus is on the second content, detecting the gesture operation shifts focus to the first content. Conversely, when focus is on the first content, detecting the same gesture operation shifts focus to the second content. This bidirectional switching allows users to quickly navigate between two primary content elements using a single, consistent gesture, improving usability and reducing the need for additional controls or inputs. The gesture operation may be detected via touch, motion sensors, or other input methods, depending on the device or system implementation. The method ensures seamless and predictable focus transitions, enhancing user experience in applications where rapid switching between content is required.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The method according to claim 11 , further comprising: displaying contents in which the third area for displaying the third content is nested in the second area for displaying the second content, setting the focus on the first content, the second content, or the third content according to the predetermined gesture operation; and scrolling the first content, the second content, or the third content on which the focus is set according to the predetermined scrolling operation regardless of whether the scrolling operation target area is the first area, the second area, or the third area.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to a user interface system for displaying and navigating nested content areas within a digital display. The problem addressed is the difficulty of managing and interacting with multiple layers of content in a seamless and intuitive manner, particularly when scrolling through nested content structures. The system involves a display divided into at least three distinct areas: a first area for displaying primary content, a second area for displaying secondary content, and a third area nested within the second area for displaying tertiary content. The user can set focus on any of these content areas using a predetermined gesture operation, such as a tap or swipe. Once focus is set, the user can scroll through the content in the focused area using a predetermined scrolling operation, regardless of which area the scrolling gesture is performed in. This allows for intuitive navigation of nested content without requiring the user to precisely target the specific area they wish to scroll. The system ensures that scrolling operations are applied to the focused content area, even if the scrolling gesture is performed in a different area. This improves usability by reducing the need for precise input and simplifying the interaction with multi-layered content displays. The invention is particularly useful in applications where hierarchical or nested content structures are common, such as document viewers, web browsers, or multimedia interfaces.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

September 8, 2020

Inventors

Sou Miyazaki
Masaki Narahashi
Hiroyo Tanaka
Tatsuya Inagi

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ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING CONTENTS